Preventing Shaving Rash Quiz

Shaving rash can be as irritating as it is unsightly. But even if you're susceptible to it, you don't have to put up with it. This quiz details ways to prevent and better understand shaving rash. See how much you know about the process.

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Question 1 of 10

What's another term for shaving rash?

shaving bumps

Shaving rash can sometimes be called shaving bumps, or it can be referred to by its scientific name, pseudofolliculitis barbae.

mask rash

facial rash

Question 2 of 10

Which common skin condition is often mistaken for shaving rash?

acne

eczema

razor burn

Razor burn is a similar but milder condition than shaving rash. It can occur due to a dull razor, insufficient use of moisturizer or a shaving lubricant, or sweat and chemicals getting into tiny nicks.

Question 3 of 10

What is the primary cause of shaving rash?

sun exposure

ingrown hairs

Shaving rash occurs when recently shaved hair grows back into the skin, becoming an ingrown hair.

The cause is unknown.

Question 4 of 10

To help prevent shaving rash, what's a good thing to do before shaving?

Take a warm shower.

A warm shower is ideal because the steam will soften the skin and the hair, making the hair less likely to curl back and create ingrown hairs. Never shave completely dry skin.

Take a cold shower.

Make sure your skin is completely dry

Question 5 of 10

What is another advantage of using warm water when shaving?

It makes hairs stand up.

Warm water makes hairs stand up, which makes shaving easier.

It makes hair regrow more slowly.

There is no other advantage.

Question 6 of 10

Which direction should you shave your hair to help prevent shaving rash?

against the grain

with the grain

The best technique to follow when shaving is to move the razor in the same direction your hairs are growing, and not against the grain.

shaving direction doesn't matter

Question 7 of 10

What popular style of shaving can make you more susceptible to rash?

close shaving

Avoid close shaves and any shaving system that cuts the hair beneath the surface of the skin by lifting or pulling the hair as it's being cut. Hairs cut below the opening of the follicle can easily become ingrown. On the other hand, electric razors don't create as close a shave as regular razors and may be ideal for keeping a rash at bay. Scissors trim hair, not shave it.

shaving with an electric razor

scissor shaving

Question 8 of 10

Which type of razor are you more likely to cut yourself with?

a dull razor

When a razor dulls, its edge becomes slightly rounded, and tiny, imperceptible chips may form along that edge. This can lead to more cuts, and a greater likelihood of shaving rash.

a sharp razor

Dull and sharp razors are equally likely to produce cuts.

Question 9 of 10

What is a great way to correct shaving rash that doesn't involve razors?

meditation

massage

going without shaving

If you have a bad shaving rash and are able to avoid shaving for a few weeks, most ingrown hairs will eventually free themselves.

Question 10 of 10

If shaving rash is not prevented or treated, what can occur?

an infection

permanent scarring

If left unchecked, shaving rash can result in discoloration that can last for months, and in severe cases, it may cause permanent scarring.